Authors (including presenting author) :
Leung KKY, Cheung GCM, Kong KTH, Chan DYC, Leung KKL
Affiliation :
Physiotherapy Department, Kowloon Hospital
Keyword 2: :
gait analysis
Keyword 3: :
qualitative feedback
Keyword 4: :
quantitative feedback
Introduction :
Stroke patients often exhibit gait asymmetry due to impaired kinematics in paralytic limbs, posing major rehabilitation challenge with increased fall/injury risk. Common patterns include stiff-knee gait and reduced step length. Traditional gait analysis relies on observation and verbal cues, lacking objectivity. Quantitative analysis provides accurate, repeatable data for reliable progress tracking. Advancing technology enables combined quantitative-qualitative feedback. With lower cost and easier access of advanced technology available, it facilitates rehabilitation standards to achieve international level. A treadmill with real-time lower limb kinematics feedback provides proprioceptive input and promotes immediate motor adaptations, yielding kinematic improvements in single session aligned with motor-learning principles.
Objectives :
This study examined immediate within-session effects of single treadmill gait training session with real-time qualitative and quantitative feedback on lower limb kinematics in stroke patients.
Methodology :
Patients diagnosed with stroke and undergoing rehabilitation in Kowloon Hospital were recruited for treadmill walk training since November-2025. Spatiotemporal parameters(step length, foot contact time) and kinematics(hip and knee flexion angle) were recorded by 3D-camera and sensitized belt. Gait analysis was performed before and after single training session. Patients received qualitative and quantitative real-time feedback from report and physiotherapist for gait re-education training.
Result & Outcome :
Ten patients were evaluated in the study(male:8; mean age 64.9±12.33). Step length(from 47.1±13.83cm to 49.7±12.17cm(p≤0.05)), foot contact time(1.08±0.3seconds to 1.0±0.25seconds(p≤0.05)), hip flexion angle(39.31±10.3degrees to 42.01±9.67degrees(p≤0.05)) and knee flexion angle(44.68±12.98degrees to 47.4±12.82degrees(p≤0.05)) were all improved. Increased step length enhances gait stability in stroke patients by improving weight bearing, balance, swing phase control, propulsion, and symmetry. Reduced foot contact time indicated symmetrical gait rhythm is promoted. Increased in hip/knee flexion angle enhances foot clearance, reduces compensatory movements, resolves stiff-knee gait, minimizes tripping, and lowers fall risk. Physiotherapists provide more precise qualitative instructions on weight shifting and foot clearance with hip/knee angle refinement by the objective measurement of kinematics. Patients were able to review their improvement with measurable parameters under therapists’ instruction and improve motivation for further rehabilitation. With more objective findings provided, it facilitates physiotherapists in all levels of experience to deliver more standardized interventions and feedbacks. To conclude, real-time kinematic parameters enable effective qualitative and quantitative feedback to both patient and physiotherapist. Further investigation is suggested for studying the lasting and carry over effect by this real-time feedback treadmill training modal.
